Why should you think about going solar?

Solar water heating can reduce a home's energy consumption by as much as 50%. Many people don't realize the energy required just for domestic hot water. 15-20% of the average family's energy consumption is for heating water for laundry, dishes, showers and long soaks in the tub.

In addition to domestic hot water, solar can heat a home, pool or hot tub. Solar beautifully supplements hydronic heating system, such as radiant floors, radiant baseboards and panels. Hot water and space heating together account for close to half of an average home energy consumption.

A huge percent of our national energy consumption comes from our homes. Going solar can and will make enormous progress toward a cleaner world and toward preserving natural resources.

Data from the Residential Energy Consumption Survey 2001
eia.doe.gov

Benefits of Going Solar

Propane and Natural gas prices have doubled and tripled for homeowners over the last year. Electricity rates are starting to go up. You may not be able to beat the high price of gasoline, BUT... you can sure outwit the gas and electric companies! Solar water heating has the greatest return on your investment and is the most efficient form of solar energy currently available. Solar is an affordable, easy way to start reducing your utility bills.

• 30% Tax Credit!
• Low Investment - High Return!
• Saves the environment!
• Adds value to your home!

Surveys taken over the last ten years confirm that the vast majority of owners (94% or more) consider that investment a wise decision. Consumer investment and satisfaction have spawned a small but growing solar hot water (SHW) industry here in the U. S. that is providing even broader benefits to our nation and has the potential to contribute much more.

Much of the United States receives abundant sunshine, making solar hot water systems a very economical investment. Solar pool heating often provides an even better investment. Payback can be as low as two years and the solar system can extend the swimming season by several months without additional cost. Many homeowners have regretted the purchase of a conventional pool heating system after receiving their first utility bill.

The vast majority of U. S. manufacturers of solar equipment voluntarily comply with national consensus standards devel­oped by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC). The SRCC tests and certifies collectors as well as complete systems for performance, reliability and durability. In addition, manufacturers and installers comply with the SRCC’s strict requirements for proper installation, labeling and homeowner information regarding operation and maintenance. Assurances of performance and quality are backed by warranties that in many cases exceed the guarantees of other household appliances.

Proven Efficient Technology: Currently there are more than 300,000 Solar Water Heating Systems installed across the United States (excluding swimming pool applications) and because these systems have been proven efficient and reliable, the number of installations continues to grow by the thousands every year.

Improved Environment: Reduced demand for fossil fuels will improve the environment by reducing air and water pollution as well as the heat-trapping gases that cause global warming. And though they cost a little bit more up front to install, a Solar Water Heating System will save consumers money in the long run as the fuel source (the sun's energy) will always be free.

What Am I Buying For Myself?

A solar hot water system is not just a conscientious purchase for the environment, it has real and practical benefits for you the consumer/homeowner. Studies over the years have shown that homeowners and businesses who have installed solar hot water systems have been delighted with their investment. We are sure that you will be too!

Personal benefits of a solar hot water system include:

- Monthly savings on your energy bills - Studies estimate that hot water accounts for 15-30% of the average homeowner's energy costs. What other home improvement pays for itself and keeps paying you for 20, 30 even 40 years?

- Increased value of your home - A study by the Appraisal Institute have determined that people are willing to pay more for homes with solar hot water systems.

- Increased hot water - SOLARHOT systems use an 80-gallon storage tank to maximize the amount of heat captured from the sun. Get twice as much hot water for 85% less cash!

- Own your energy instead of renting it from the power company.

What Am I Buying For My World?

Power plant emissions of carbon dioxide, sulfates and nitrates are a serious threat to our air quality and directly impact our habitat, the animals around us, and our health. Energy costs, both financial and environmental, are rising. Issues include:

- Poor urban air quality is leading to an explosion of children with asthma.
- Escalating energy prices are putting the squeeze on the average family.
- Global warming has altered the balance of nature, raised ocean temperatures, elevated sea levels, and changed the ecosystems around us.